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California Cool

This Southern California homeowner created a design that's a liberation of color with plenty of space to breathe. The feel of the corner is removed by painting a section of wall vibrant orange, giving the illusion of greater space while also defining a nook without expensive architecture.

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Magic Tricks

Paint floating shelves the same hue as your wall, then accessorize with accents in contrasting colors. For example, white shelves on a white wall nearly disappear and allow these colorful accessories to shine.

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Bright Spots

Inspired by the '50s, this living area sets a white couch against the white living room wall as the canvas perfect for pops of color in pillows. Pillows are affordable and easy to re-cover, so don't be afraid to mix it up and sport bright colors on throw pillows.

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Twice as Nice

A combination living/dining room allows for an open feel. A mirror placed on the bold stripe on the wall further opens the room.

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Strategic Stripe

Ending a stripe on the wall where the dining room ends instills a sense of definition between the two rooms.

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Must-Know Rules for Using Color

Nothing fanatically transforms a room as much as color does. Learn about choosing and using color in your home with tips from Better Homes and Gardens contributing design editor, Elaine Griffin.

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Thoughtful Accessorizing

The timelessness of this late '60s buffet builds a foundation for eclectic accents. Layering white accessories against a white background reflects a design-without-clutter mantra.

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Screen Saver

Here, a circle-motif decorative screen separates the living area from the entryway. See-through elements add architectural division without heavy construction or blocked views.

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New Heights

The headboard is created from two closet doors mounted to the wall behind the bed, giving the room the illusion of greater height. A latte-color stripe compliments the headboard and the wooden shelf.

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Subdued Hues

The master bedroom has a mature, masculine look that departs from hot hues found elsewhere in the home. Using rich chocolate tones and muted blues creates sophistication. This mid-century reading chair was just over $100 and gives a plain wall artistic flair thanks to its strong shape.

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Block It Out

Throughout the condo, painted blocks of color in strategic places highlight groupings and collections. Here, an espresso brown is a rich backdrop for white accessories.